Affecting millions of people in the United States, atrial fibrillation (AFib) is an irregular heartbeat. Additionally, it is often rapid. This condition involves the upper chambers of the heart. The atria beat out of sync with the lower chambers. Moreover, AFib can increase stroke risk and worsen heart symptoms.
For National AFib Awareness Month, it is important to track an unforeseen culprit of symptoms: poor sleep.
Understanding this cycle helps those with AFib better manage their condition.
Additionally, it can also improve overall well-being.
Understanding Atrial Fibrillation
When your heartbeat rhythm is disrupted, it can lead to poor blood flow. It can cause fatigue, shortness of breath, and increase the risk of stroke and heart failure. This disruption can worsen long-term health and require medical attention. Early management reduces complications.
According to the CDC, AFib affects between 2.7 and 6.1 million people in the U.S. That number is expected to grow.
AFib can be infrequent, persistent, or long-term, and its symptoms vary from mild to severe.
While some people may not notice symptoms, others with AFib experience heart palpitations, dizziness, and fatigue.
Additionally, many people notice AFib symptoms when they lie down, due to heart rate changes and sleep anxiety.
Poor sleep can make symptoms more noticeable and harder to manage. Additionally, sleep disorders are common in people with AFib. Sleep apnea contributes to the development and recurrence of atrial fibrillation. Without quality rest, the body experiences.
- increased inflammation,
- elevated blood pressure,
- hormone imbalances that can trigger or worsen AFib episodes,
- heart rate variability, which is already compromised in those with AFib,
- stress response, which can stimulate irregular heart rhythms, and
- daytime fatigue, making it harder to exercise, focus, or manage medications properly.
Recommended sleep for an adult is 7 to 9 hours and is even more important for those suffering with AFib.
Healthy Sleep Habits
Additionally, Creating a heart-healthy sleep environment and routine can make a big difference when suffering from AFib.
Screen for sleep apnea.
Additionally, sleep apnea and AFib are tightly linked.
If you snore or wake up gasping, talk to your doctor.
Consider a sleep study or evaluation with the Alaska Sleep Clinic.
Treating sleep apnea with CPAP therapy can significantly reduce AFib recurrence rates.
2. Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment: keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet. Additionally, avoid screens for at least an hour before bedtime to reduce blue light exposure. Consider blackout curtains, a white noise machine, or essential oils to support relaxation.
3. Set a Consistent Sleep Schedule. Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, even on weekends.
Additionally, this helps train your internal clock and supports more stable heart rhythms.
4. Limit caffeine and alcohol in the evening. Both substances can trigger AFib episodes and interfere with deep sleep. Additionally, try herbal tea or water in the evening, and avoid heavy meals right before bed.
5. Practice Stress Reduction Techniques. Stress is a known contributor to AFib flares and insomnia. Additionally, add gentle evening routines like reading, meditation, yoga, light stretching, or deep breathing exercises. Finally, Apps like Calm offer guided meditations to support heart and sleep health.
If you’re struggling with AFib and sleep, remember you’re not alone. Additionally, organizations like the American Heart Association and StopAfib.org offer support and education.
Connect with the Alaska Sleep Clinic to help you find successful treatments for a healthy night’s rest.
